STRESS MANAGEMENT EDUCATION FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH HYPERTENSION AS A PREVENTIVE MEASURE AGAINST HEART DISEASE IN TORONIPA VILLAGE, SOROPIA DISTRICT

Abstract

As a rising non-communicable disease, hypertension imposes financial burdens, anxiety, and family stress, while also carrying a risk of cardiovascular complications; however, the community of Sorue Jaya Village has not yet received adequate education on stress management. This community service initiative aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of 30 residents (aged 20–60) in Toronipa Urban Village and Sorue Jaya Village (Soropia District, Konawe Regency) regarding the recognition of hypertension and stress, as well as the independent application of relaxation techniques, emotional expression, and spiritual approaches (such as dhikr and prayer). The activity was conducted on August 10, 2026, and included presentations, the distribution of leaflets and modules, a Q&A session, and blood pressure and body weight screenings. Success was evaluated using pre- and post-test questionnaires consisting of 10 multiple-choice questions, followed by monitoring one week after the event. The majority of respondents were women (63.33%) and suffered from hypertension (66.7%). Evaluation results showed a significant increase in participants' knowledge levels: the "good" knowledge category rose from 6.7% (2 people) to 13.3% (4 people), and the "sufficient" category rose from 50% (15 people) to 83.3% (25 people), while the "poor" knowledge category dropped from 43.3% (13 people) to 3.3% (1 person). In conclusion, this educational program was effective in improving community understanding and skills regarding stres management for hypertension patients as a measure to prevent heart disease.